Abstract
Background: The use of laparoscopy has expanded to include the management of acute abdomen. This study describes the author's experience with laparoscopic management of acute small bowel obstruction.
Methods: From February 1994 through March 1998, 19 patients underwent laparoscopic intervention for acute small bowel obstruction. Their clinical data were analyzed to evaluate the outcome.
Results: A total of 19 patients underwent 20 exploratory laparoscopies. The cause of obstruction was diagnosed correctly in 17 of the patients (90%). Fifteen patients (79%) had adhesions, nine of which were postoperative. Of the 19 patients, 13 (68%) had successful laparoscopic treatment. Laparotomy was required in six patients (32%) for various lesions including ileocecal tuberculosis. The average time for laparoscopy was 58 min. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 5 days. There was no morbidity or mortality in this series.
Conclusions: Laparoscopy is a feasible and safe alternative to laparotomy for most patients with acute small bowel obstruction.
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Received: 1 December 1998/Accepted: 5 March 1999
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Al-Mulhim, A.A. Laparoscopic management of acute small bowel obstruction. Surg Endosc 14, 157–160 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/s004649900090
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s004649900090